Matcha Mochi Cookies

Soft, chewy matcha mochi cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the unique flavors of matcha, the chewiness of mochi, and the sweetness of white chocolate. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only visually stunning but also offer a fun texture and unexpected flavor that will impress your friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a tea party or just indulging yourself, matcha mochi cookies are sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: The combination of matcha and sweet white chocolate creates an irresistible taste.
• Fun Texture: With a chewy mochi center surrounded by soft cookie dough, every bite is a delightful surprise.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for special occasions, tea parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth at home.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that you can whip up these cookies without stress.
• Impressive Presentation: Their beautiful green color and white chocolate accents make them perfect for sharing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your matcha mochi cookies, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls (small and large)
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Ice cream scoop (4-tablespoon/60mL)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer: These tools make it easy to achieve a creamy butter mix quickly without tiring out your arms.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Necessary for preparing the mochi mixture efficiently in the microwave.
• Baking sheet: A must-have for evenly baking your cookies while providing ample space for spreading.

Ingredients

Soft, chewy cookies with matcha flavor, mochi centers, and white chocolate chunks for a Japanese-inspired sweet treat.

Ingredients:
– 80 g glutinous rice flour
– 40 g granulated sugar
– 135 mL water
– 2 teaspoons cornstarch
– 180 g all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon matcha powder, ceremonial grade or high-quality culinary grade
– 1 tablespoon milk powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– 115 g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 150 g granulated sugar
– 1 large egg, room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 100 g white chocolate, roughly chopped

How to Make Matcha Mochi Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Mochi Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water. Minor lumps are acceptable.
2. Microwave for 1 minute, stir well, then microwave for another minute. Stir again before microwaving for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Stir until the mixture becomes sticky and bouncy in texture.

Step 2: Shape the Mochi Balls

1. Lightly dust a work surface with cornstarch.
2. Transfer the mochi onto the surface and coat all sides with cornstarch.
3. Allow it to cool slightly until manageable, then divide into 10 equal pieces, ensuring each piece is coated with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
4. Set aside to cool completely before use.

Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, matcha powder, milk powder, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter on medium speed until creamy using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Add granulated sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy (approximately 3 minutes).
5. Incorporate egg and vanilla extract on low speed until combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

1. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture on low speed until just partially combined with some visible flour patches remaining.
2. Fold in most of the chopped white chocolate while reserving some for topping until just combined.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

1. Using a 4-tablespoon (60mL) ice cream scoop, portion dough into balls and place them on the lined baking sheet.
2. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Press your thumb into each chilled dough ball’s center to create a depression.
3. Place one piece of mochi in each depression and wrap dough around it to form balls again.
4. Arrange on the lined baking sheet with at least 5 cm between each cookie for proper spreading.
5. Bake for about 12–14 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft; press remaining white chocolate pieces onto tops about one minute before completion.
6. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious matcha mochi cookies!

How to Serve Matcha Mochi Cookies

Matcha mochi cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply indulge yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• Green Tea: Pair your cookies with a warm cup of green tea for a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Matcha Latte: A creamy matcha latte complements the cookies and enhances their matcha flavor.

As a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Sweets: Create a dessert platter featuring an assortment of Japanese sweets, including dorayaki and mochi.
• Fruit Garnish: Add slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or mango for a refreshing contrast.

Warm and Fresh

• Microwave: Heat the cookies briefly in the microwave before serving for that just-baked feel.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies with a scoop of vanilla or matcha ice cream in between for a delicious sandwich.

How to Perfect Matcha Mochi Cookies

Perfecting your matcha mochi cookies can take them from good to great. Here are some tips to help you achieve cookie perfection.

• Bold Flavor Choice: Use high-quality matcha powder for the best flavor and vibrant color.
• Proper Cooling: Ensure the mochi is completely cooled before using it in the cookie dough to maintain texture.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; underbaking slightly will keep them chewy and soft inside.
• Add Texture: Consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch alongside the white chocolate chunks.

Best Side Dishes for Matcha Mochi Cookies

These matcha mochi cookies make an excellent companion to various side dishes. Here are some ideas to enhance your dessert experience.

1. Miso Soup: A light miso soup can provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a healthy side that pairs well with desserts.
3. Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono): These tangy pickles contrast nicely with sweet treats, adding depth to your meal.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a bright, natural sweetness alongside your cookies.
5. Yuzu Sorbet: This citrusy sorbet serves as a palate cleanser while complementing the matcha flavor beautifully.
6. Sushi Rolls: A few slices of sushi rolls can create an interesting fusion experience when paired with sweets like these cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Matcha Mochi Cookies, avoiding common pitfalls will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

• Using low-quality matcha: Low-grade matcha can lead to a bitter taste. Always choose ceremonial grade or high-quality culinary matcha for the best flavor in your cookies.

• Not allowing mochi to cool: If you use the mochi while it’s still warm, it can be too sticky to handle. Make sure to let it cool completely before incorporating it into your cookie dough.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too much can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined, ensuring some flour patches remain visible for a tender texture.

• Skipping refrigeration: Failing to chill the cookie dough may cause them to spread too much during baking. Always refrigerate your cookie balls for at least one hour before baking.

• Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at a temperature that is too high or too low can affect the final texture of your cookies. Ensure your oven is preheated correctly to 180°C (350°F).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Matcha Mochi Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie balls for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each ball tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Matcha Mochi Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 150°C (300°F) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Matcha Mochi Cookies?

Matcha Mochi Cookies are soft and chewy cookies made with glutinous rice flour and matcha powder, featuring a gooey mochi center and white chocolate chunks.

How do I know when my Matcha Mochi Cookies are done baking?

Your cookies are done when the edges are set but the centers remain soft. They should have a slight golden color on the edges after baking.

Can I customize my Matcha Mochi Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate, or even infuse different flavors like yuzu or sesame into the dough.

How long do Matcha Mochi Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 3 months when frozen.

Final Thoughts

Matcha Mochi Cookies are an enticing blend of chewy and soft textures with delightful green tea flavor. Their unique mochi centers make them stand out as a special treat. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients like nuts or different types of chocolate. Give this recipe a try and impress friends and family with these delicious Japanese-inspired sweets!